CBBC and BBC iPlayer will air Pablo: Next Level starting Monday 7 September. The animated comedy is produced by Paper Owl Films and Crayola Studios. The series targets children aged five to eight and follows a central autistic character as he enters mainstream school.
The production employs a team of young autistic writers and voice actors to reflect real life experiences. The narrative focuses on the protagonist using a sketchbook diary to process emotions and navigate school environments. CBBC will broadcast the series on weekdays at 4.10pm. BBC iPlayer will release five new episodes every Monday.
Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning at BBC Children's and Education, confirmed the commission focuses on the transition to primary school. Sabrina Wiewel, EVP and Head of Crayola Studios, stated that the project uses drawing to center creativity. Gráinne McGuinness, Creative Director at Paper Owl Films, noted the series examines inclusion and engagement within the school system.
The original Pablo series was the first animated children's show to feature an autistic lead character. It has been sold into 190 territories and translated into 35 languages. The previous iteration of the series was broadcast on CBeebies and received a BAFTA nomination.